Biological, Chemical and Radiological Safety in Research, Testing, and Teaching Involving Animals
Risk Assessment
The Office of Responsible Research Practices (ORRP) reviews all IACUC protocols and identifies those protocols using hazardous agents (e.g., infectious agents / biohazards, hazardous and toxic substances / chemicals, or radioactive materials). These protocols are forwarded to the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (OEHS). The OEHS assigns a risk level appropriate to the hazards identified in the protocol and forwards a safety assessment to the PI, the IACUC Office and University Laboratory Animal Resources (ULAR). The OSU Animal Use Safety Information Sheet (OASIS) provides information relating to appropriate containment levels necessary for the safety of both the investigators and ULAR employees. The OASIS may also dictate a specific method for disposition of carcasses, waste and bedding. In addition, the use of hazardous agents in animal research may require development of a Safety Plan (i.e., Biosafety Plan, Chemical Hygiene Plan, or Radiation Safety Plan) requiring approval from the Institutional Biosafety Committee, University Radiation Committee or OEHS. Specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) for the handling of animals under these protocols are developed by ULAR, ORRP and OEHS staff.
Occupational Health Program
It is University policy that all individuals listed in an Animal Use Protocol (AUP) as well as all employees with significant animal contact or occupational exposure to hazardous agents (e.g., infectious agents / biohazards, hazardous and toxic substances / chemicals, or radioactive materials) be enrolled in an Occupational Health Program.
